Chincoteague Pony Auction Breaks Record

CHINCOTEAGUE, Va.- Hundreds of people came out to Chincoteague Island on Thursday morning for the 92nd annual pony auction.

The bidding started at 8 a.m. and ended around noon. During that time, folks cast their bid for the pony they wanted.

However, not all ponies were being sold. Only the yearlings and young ponies were up for auction. The Chincoteague Fire Department designates a few horses as 'buy backs', which are foals that will go back to live on Assateague Island.

One little girl's dream came true today when the horse she's had her eye on for years finally became hers.

"Ever since she was born she was my favorite, and I love her bloodlines and I love her color and that she has a sparkle blue in her eye," 11-year-old, Alyssa Jastram said.

Officials who run the auction said they broke a record this year, raising more than $200,000 during the event.

"To be able to see these kids go home with those big smiles on their faces and even sometimes tears come down, you know it just makes our hearts swell with pride," volunteer firefighter, Denise Bowden said.

A total of 62 ponies were sold during Thursday's auction. The highest bidder spent more than $15,000, while the lowest put out $1,100.

A couple in Wyoming, Delaware is opening up their home to the community to help them get into the holiday spirit.

James and Ronicca Teagle have been decorating their home for the last 15 years. Each year they welcome tours through every room of their home and give back to a special Delmarva charity. This year the Teagles are giving back to Bless Our Children.

A couple in Wyoming, Delaware is opening up their home to the community to help them get into the holiday spirit.

James and Ronicca Teagle have been decorating their home for the last 15 years. Each year they welcome tours through every room of their home and give back to a special Delmarva charity. This year the Teagles are giving back to Bless Our Children.